microorganism
Americannoun
noun
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An organism that can be seen only with the aid of a microscope and that typically consists of only a single cell. Microorganisms include bacteria, protozoans, and certain algae and fungi.
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See Note at germ
Other Word Forms
- microorganic adjective
- microorganismal adjective
Etymology
Origin of microorganism
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Just as it breaks down plant cells, ultrasound can disrupt the cell walls of microorganisms such as bacteria that may spoil the product.
From Science Daily
Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley have now identified a microorganism that challenges this long accepted rule.
From Science Daily
When lake levels are high, microorganisms more effectively consume methane before it can reach the atmosphere.
From Science Daily
Ice caves are one such extreme habitat, home to diverse microorganisms that scientists are only beginning to understand.
From Science Daily
"At higher temperatures, microorganisms break down organic material faster, and both CO2 and methane emissions rise," says Zhao.
From Science Daily
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
